McClaren's team bagged a valuable point against reigning champions Chelsea at St James' Park but Waddle said: "It's not easy, and the days have gone when they can spend and compete with the big clubs in the transfer market.

"They're buying players for £10million, £12million, £13million, but to a lot of clubs that's peanuts, let's be honest. They work to a certain budget and you get a certain quality player.

"But if Steve McClaren can get them organised, if he can get the confidence in them, they've got a chance then possibly of getting up the league."

The Magpies must now turn their attention to the Etihad Stadium as they travel to the North West to take on Manchester City.